GMB says its members deserve better than to have to stand on the factory gates to discuss union business with their representatives.

The GMB is disappointed at the draconian decision of Huddersfield based furniture manufacturer JT Ellis not to allow them on site to deal with union business and to represent GMB members even though a long-established trade union recognition agreement is in place.

Representatives of the giant GMB trade union have been locked-out of the site, despite assurances of a positive working relationship from Ellis management. The GMB has repeatedly requested access to discuss workplace and industry-wide issues with members and has given a commitment to the company that there would be no impact on production.

Andrew Aldwinkle, GMB full-time official, said: "All we want to do is work with the company to make sure it's a success so that in turn our members reap some of the benefits. However, because the company are refusing us access we are now having to engage with our members at the factory gates.  We hope this action will make the company see sense. This is not an effective way to conduct union business and does very little for promoting a good industrial relationship."

"The company are now spending money on management consultants rather than consulting with highly skilled trade union officials."

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